Fink named new DGLA president

Strater, Halbrook, Watchorn round out incoming leaders

The Dallas Gay and Lesbian Alliance elected new officers for 2007-2008 at a recent board of directors meeting.

Longtime community and political activist Patti Fink was elected president, succeeding Pete Webb. Webb did not run for re-election because he is moving to Washington, D.C. this fall.

Jeff Strater, another longtime community and political activist, was elected vice president. Prominent Log Cabin Republicans activist Carla Halbrook was elected secretary, and Bob Watchorn, who is well known for his work with neighborhood associations, was elected treasurer.

Webb said he is confident that Fink and Strater would lead the other board officers and members effectively.

“I know that Patti and Jeff will do a fantastic job,” Webb said. “They both have the skill and charisma to lead the organization to the next level.”

Other board members who will serve with the officers during the next two years are John Ames, Steve Krueger, Felix Arrieta, Suzanne Hickman, Damien Duckettt, Josh Becker and Cannon Flowers.

Fink said the board would feature a diverse group of new members with fresh ideas and others with seasoned experience.

“We are excited about the work ahead building relationships with the new Dallas City Council and advocating and educating within and outside the LGBT community,” Fink said.

Fink brings extensive experience to her role as the group’s new leader. In addition to serving on the DGLA’s board of directors for six years, she has served on the Human Rights Campaign’s national board of directors. She is a member of Stonewall Democrats of Dallas, Equality Texas, the Dallas County Democratic Party and Democracy for America. She is the co-host of the Lambda Weekly radio show on KNON 89.3 FM.

As he prepares to leave Dallas, Webb said he is reminded of how important DGLA had been in his life.

The volunteer work helped his passion for social justice blossom, Webb said. A friend who was a member of the group urged him to become involved, he said.

“I never imagined the friendships and relationships that would blossom out of that moment of truth,” Webb said. “I am proud to have worked with various community leaders and elected politicians.”

Webb, who was born in Illinois but lived in Dallas for most of his “30-plus years,” said he plans to continue his real estate career and his activism in Washington.

At the same time, he will continue to keep an eye on Dallas, he said.

“Dallas will always have a place in my heart,” Webb said. “I look forward to supporting my friends and causes in Dallas.”

Webb said he is thankful for the pioneers who established the Dallas Gay and Lesbian Alliance in 1997, allowing him and others to continue the LGBT rights movement in Dallas.